Calypso's Journal: Bali

Bali is probably better known by most than any other spot in the whole of Indonesia. It's a very popular tourist destination with a host of five-star hotels and resorts and all the things that go along with a tropical island vacation.

The main tourist destinations on the island of Bali are actually along the southern coastline. We stayed up in Lovina on the northern coast; not quite the same beautiful beaches and fancy resorts (sort of a poor man's budget hangout) but it was still very much a tourist mecca, full of resorts and shops and stalls selling all things Balinese; sarongs, fabrics, clothing of all descriptions, jewellery and a myriad of other souvenirs.

The Sail Indonesia Rally festivities were laid on in conjunction with the Lovina Beach annual arts festival and again, we were welcomed by the local dignitaries and watched some very professional dance performances with their incredible movements and costumes. This was, by far, the most elaborate of performances and costumes we have experienced to date. Quite spectacular but, I have to admit, I think I preferred some of the smaller ones with the gorgeous children who had put so much time and effort into their entertainment all solely for us. The joy on their faces while they performed is not easily forgotten. In this instance as the photo shows, movement of hands, eyes and head are an integral part of the routine.

Once the opening ceremony was over, it was followed by a good and very spicy welcome dinner and then various bands playing extraordinarily loud music. All the boats were anchored just off the beach and the way sound carries over the water, it made it virtually impossible to sleep, we could actually feel the vibrations through the water. We were subjected to this for five nights until at least two in the morning. Bali was where we had to have our visas renewed but, if we hadn't had to wait for those to be processed, I think one night would have seen us on our way.

Throughout our trip, we'd experienced very few other rally participants as they'd spread far and wide once we left the official check-in points. However, here, it was a gathering of the masses with at least 75% of the rally boats together at the same time. We met up with all the boats that had taken the northern route as well as a host of others who had darted ahead of the group. It was great to see some of our old 'new' friends again.

Most of the cruisers booked onto tours of the island which meant several days staying in hotels, spas or resorts. Such is definitely not in Calypso's budget and as we'd had a day tour around Lombok, we felt we'd experienced similar scenery so were quite content to stay put.

There were literally dozens and dozens of restaurants and all very reasonable indeed. Here we found not only Indonesian food but Thai, Malaysian, Vietnamese, Korean and the inevitable pizza and American-style food as well. Our favourite was a bit of a walk away but served the most delicious Laksa and pad thai for unbelievably cheap prices.

Our time in Indonesia has taught us how absolutely diverse this country is. The difference between the various islands is quite marked, not only in culture, dress and food but in language, religion, architecture, music and dance as well. But the thing that remains consistent throughout is the delightful people. Always smiling, always welcoming and always seemingly so thrilled to meet you. Some of them are so incredibly poor and yet there is always a ready smile to greet you. I think if we had another lifetime to live, we'd be more than delighted to spend quite a few of those years around these parts.

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